Ex-Kroger CEO Ordered to Explain Resignation in Jewel Lawsuit

Rodney McMullen, former CEO of Kroger, has been ordered by an Ohio judge to provide a written explanation for his abrupt resignation earlier this year amid an unrelated lawsuit involving singer-songwriter Jewel and her business partner. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit, which alleges contractual disputes related to Kroger’s Wellness Festival, argue that McMullen’s reasons for stepping down are relevant to his credibility and may reveal an allegedly corrupt corporate culture at Kroger. McMullen’s legal team has opposed the request, calling it irrelevant and embarrassing, but Judge Christian Jenkins ruled that McMullen must submit his explanation under oath for private judicial review. Kroger had previously stated that McMullen’s resignation followed an investigation into his personal conduct, unrelated to business, and that he forfeited $11.2 million in bonuses and stock. Legal experts note that McMullen’s forfeiture of typical CEO protections raises questions about the circumstances of his departure, which remains shrouded in mystery pending possible court sealing of his written response.